March 03, 2008

By By Lars Brandle, London

Universal Music Group has struck a deal with Disney Music Group's Hollywood Records to license the Jonas Brothers' self-titled album for Europe.

"Jonas Brothers" will be released in Europe by Polydor Records in June, preceded by the first single, "S.O.S" in late May.

"This band is one of our key priorities for Europe," comments Max Hole, executive VP, Universal Music Group International in a statement, "and we are keen on creating the same phenomenon in the region that has taken hold in the U.S."

Hole's colleague David Joseph, president, Universal Music Operations, was similarly enthusiastic. "If the reaction of the team at Polydor is anything to go by," he adds, "this could be the biggest pop invasion to come over from the U.S. in many, many years."

UMG also has distribution rights for "Jonas Brothers" in Canada and Latin America.

The loser in this deal is EMI Music, which missed the chance to extend on its current international distribution deal for the album. "Someone within the old (EMI) management chose not to pick up the option," says an EMI source. "I don't know why they wouldn't."

Earlier in the year, the teen pop band, whose album is certified platinum in the United States, signed a two-year, multi-million dollar worldwide touring deal with Live Nation.

Jonas Brothers will appear as special guests on Avril Lavigne's European tour, kicking off May 26 at Glasgow's Carling Academy.

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